The Senate Education Committee, chaired by Sen. Jill Tokuda, today approved two bills that aim to lay the foundation for a state-funded early learning program. The measures still have to pass through additional committees before they become law.

A throng of testifiers in support of the measures filled the room. Republican Sen. Sam Slom was the only Senator present to oppose the proposals.

The first measure, SB1093, proposes establishing a School Readiness program for the late-born children who will not be allowed to enroll in kindergarten starting with the 2014 school year.

The second, SB1095, would create a longer-term early learning program open to all four year olds.

— Alia Wong